The Singhpuri area of Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, has had a long-standing tradition of celebrating an eco-friendly Holi. Since 3000 years, the residents of Singhpuri have been organising Holika Dahan celebrations using five thousand cow-dung cakes, Times Travel has reported.

Holi celebrations are not confined only to Mathura and Vrindavan, but also to the plenty of incredible destinations that follow age old traditions to celebrate the festival of colours.

The Singhpuri area of Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, has had a long-standing tradition of celebrating an eco-friendly Holi. Since 3000 years, the residents of Singhpuri have been organising Holika Dahan celebrations using five thousand cow-dung cakes.

At the outset, priests of the city sanctify the cow-dung cakes by reciting mantras from the Yajurveda during Pradosh Kaal (twilight). Then a 50 ft tall Holika mound is prepared with these sanctified cakes. Customarily, people observe night vigil for the full moon night before Holi and light up the fire to the mound of cow-dung cakes at the break of dawn.

This Holi is organised by Shri Mahakaleshwar Bhartrihari Vikram Dhwaj Chal Samaroh Samiti, Singhpuri. This committee is run by the Gurjar Gaur Brahmin Samaj of Singhpuri.

It is an ancestral tradition that was started 3000 years ago in the wake of the need to protect the environment by abstaining from using wood fuel from the trees. The practice of lighting environment-friendly bonfires to inspire others continues till today. This year, Kanda Holi will be held on March 9.

The Kanda Holi is a Ritual practised to bring happiness and prosperity in homes. The smoke emitted by cow dung cakes, charged with the energy of Vedic mantras works to destroy the negativity prevalent in society.

Featured Image source: Indiamart